GERD stands for gastroesophageal (say: gass-troh-eh-soff-eh-JEE-el) reflux (say: REE-fluks) disease.
Gastroesophageal reflux (GER) is when food and acid from the stomach go back up into the esophagus. This causes an uncomfortable feeling in the chest, often called heartburn.
Reflux that happens a lot and causes problems like poor growth, vomiting, or damage to the esophagus is called GERD. It's more serious than GER and is usually treated with medicine.
Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor.
© 1995-2025 KidsHealth ® All rights reserved. Images provided by iStock, Getty Images, Corbis, Veer, Science Photo Library, Science Source Images, Shutterstock, and Clipart.com
Reach us 24/7 for patient referrals, consults, admissions and neonatal transport.
Home | Privacy policy & terms of use | Contact us
© 2025 Children’s Minnesota
Children’s Minnesota is registered as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Our tax identification number is 41-1754276.